PM Modi leads ‘Vande Mataram’ at Kolkata mall amid patriotism debates
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made headlines on Friday evening when he led a rendition of 'Vande Mataram' at Kolkata's Goldighi Shopping Mall. This impromptu performance took place during the inauguration of a new Metro route in the city.
Earlier in the week, a group of concerned citizens gathered at the Khudiram statue to protest against a sedition threat made by Assam's Chief Minister, Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma. The protest was sparked by the CM's warning to charge the Sribhumi Congress for singing a couplet of 'Aamar Sonar Bangla', Bangladesh's national anthem.
In a show of unity and patriotism, BJP leaders held a rally on Friday to celebrate the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram'. The event was attended by several prominent figures, including MP Parimal Shuklabaidya, Minister Kaushik Rai, MLA Dipayan Chakraborty, and former MP Dr Rajdeep Roy. Together, they led the singing of the iconic song, which was composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.
The contrasting events highlight the differing views on freedom of expression and patriotism among political leaders in the region. While some choose to threaten legal action, others opt to celebrate unity through song.
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